Pancreatic Cancer Research

Wilmot Researchers Examine Pancreatic Cancer From New Angles

Pancreatic cancer is one of the few types of cancer for which survival has not improved substantially in the last 40 years. Through research, scientists and clinicians at Wilmot Cancer Institute are working to change that.

A few recent examples illustrate the efforts taking place around this disease. David C. Linehan, M.D., chair of UR Medicine’s Department of Surgery and director of Clinical Operations at Wilmot, secured a grant from the Pancreatic Cancer Action Network (PANCAN) to open a trial for pancreatic cancer. Completed along with a co-investigator from Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, the phase 2 study will evaluate whether an immune-stimulating drug can help patients whose disease has spread and whose life expectancy is 6 to 12 months.

In June 2015, David C. Linehan, M.D., chair of UR Medicine’s Department of Surgery and director of Clinical Operations at Wilmot, secured a grant to investigate an experimental treatment and its appropriate dose and timing in mice. This will help with designing future clinical trials that could benefit pancreatic cancer patients.

Having pancreatic cancer experts like Hezel, Linehan and Land in Rochester means those diagnosed and treated in our region have access to the most advanced care. These and other research advances are made possible by community support from individuals and groups like the Pancreatic Cancer Association of Western New York.

Pancreatic Cancer Association of Western New York Makes Difference In Local Research Efforts

In May 2015, Wilmot awarded the group with the Inspiration Award at the Discovery Ball to recognize them for all their efforts.

“One person can do an amazing amount,” says Mary Ellen Smith, associate executive director of PCAWNY. By donating on Wilmot Cancer Research Day, you can join PCAWNY in supporting important local cancer research efforts and making a difference in the fight against cancer